Every year, July 10 is celebrated as Chronic Disease Awareness Day 2025, a day to inform individuals about the warning signs of early symptoms and the danger of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, cancer, kidney failure, and autoimmune disorders. Although most of these diseases progress quietly over time, they also produce subtle warning signs at the onset, signs that are too easily overlooked or confused with normal stress or ageing.
Identifying these red flags as soon as possible can be key to the difference between controllable health and a life-changing diagnosis. In an exclusive interaction with the editorial team of Onlymyhealth, Dr Bhumesh Tyagi, Consultant, General Medicine and Physician, Shardacare, Health City, Noida, explained to us what you should know. Let’s dig in!
Why Does Early Detection Matter?
Chronic diseases are the major causes of death and disability globally. They account for about 74% of total deaths worldwide, as reported by the World Health Organization. The majority of chronic diseases are preventable or can be controlled with early medical treatment, though. Early diagnosis results in improved treatment outcomes, less healthcare expenditure, and a better quality of life.
Early Warning Signs of Chronic Diseases You Never Should Ignore
Dr Tyagi shared with us seven early signs of chronic diseases that you should never ignore. These may include:
1. Chronic Fatigue
It’s normal to feel tired once in a while, but if exhaustion becomes a daily struggle even after rest, it may point to conditions like diabetes, hypothyroidism, chronic kidney disease, or heart failure.
Also Read: Frequent Headaches Amid Heatwave: Doctor Explains Possible Reasons
2. Unexplained Weight Loss or Gain
Sudden changes in weight, without a change in diet or activity level, can be a warning sign of thyroid disorders, diabetes, cancer, or digestive conditions.
3. Shortness of Breath
If you catch your breath while performing ordinary activities such as climbing stairs or walking, it may be associated with heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or even preliminary symptoms of lung cancer.
4. Frequent Urination
This is a typical symptom of diabetes. When there is high blood sugar, your kidneys have to work hard to flush out the excess and therefore resulting in frequent visits to the bathroom in the evening hours.
5. Swelling in the Legs or Feet
Too frequently underdiagnosed, swelling (oedema) is sometimes a symptom of heart failure, kidney disease, or liver disease. It happens when fluid buildup results from impaired circulation or organ malfunction.
6. Chronic Pain or Inflammation
Pain and aching that lasts for weeks might be an indicator of arthritis, fibromyalgia, or autoimmune diseases such as lupus. Don't attribute it to age without an assessment.
7. Mood Changes and Brain Fog
Conditions such as depression, anxiety, or incipient Alzheimer's can manifest as mood swings, memory issues, or trouble concentrating, long before they are full-blown.
Bottomline
This Chronic Disease Awareness Day, pause to check how you're doing, physically, mentally, and emotionally. Early warning signs are your body's SOS calls. By listening, getting medical attention in time, and making healthy lifestyle changes, you can shield yourself and your loved ones against the long-term effects of chronic illness.